Over 75's Walking Football: Your Guide to Staying Fit and Having Fun in Later Life
Over 75's Walking Football: Your Guide to Staying Fit and Having Fun in Later Life
Blog Article
Soccer is a sport cherished by people of all age groups, and walk football is proving that even those who are over 75 can appreciate this beautiful sport. Walking football provides seniors a method to remain active, socialise, and enjoy themselves without the intense physical demands of regular football. This adapted version of the game ensures safety and accessibility, with rules banning running, head play, and tackles with heavy contact.
In the UK, walking football has become popular as more over-75s take to the pitch. Recent competitions, like the inaugural over-75s championship in Greater Manchester, showcase the team spirit and spirit among participants who show that no age is too old for football. Figures like Geoff Martel, an motivational captain for the England over-75 team, highlight the enthusiasm and commitment present in this growing community.
Walk football isn't just about the sport; it’s about enhancing well-being, mental health, and enjoyment in later life. The game focuses on both physical fitness and emotional health, providing a valuable outlet for older adults seeking to maintain an active lifestyle. The increase of walk football among older generations marks an exciting shift in how we view ageing and sports participation.
Key Takeaways
Walking football is available and safe for over-75s.
England has seen a growth in walking football participation among seniors.
The game supports health, well-being, and community among seniors.
History and Growth of Walking Football
Walk football, introduced in England, is designed primarily to older adults, providing an accessible way to play soccer without the requirements of sprinting or intense physical activity. While initially aimed at those aged 50 and above, its reach has expanded across the United Kingdom and internationally, even inspiring events such as the Aneurin Bevan Tournament.
Origins in England
Walking football began in 2010 in Chesterfield. This version of the sport was designed for men over 50, enabling them to continue playing football in a low-impact form. The concept quickly gained momentum, as it enabled participants to reconnect their love for football without the danger of injuries associated with running.
A notable moment in its early growth was the promotion by Barclays in 2014, which significantly boosted awareness. Through targeted advertising campaigns, walk football became popular among neighborhoods, prompting more people to participate. This greater participation solidified walking football's place as a legitimate sports option in England.
Expansion Across the UK
As walking football grew in popularity in the UK, its attraction spread over 75s walking football throughout the UK. By appealing to both men and female participants, the sport grew to include players aged 60 and over, over-70s participants, and even female players aged 40 and above. This met a increasing demand for leisure activities tailored to older adults.
Local groups and charities, such as Age UK, played a significant role in this expansion. By offering walking football sessions in various communities, they made the sport more accessible to a broader audience. Teams were established in cities across the UK, integrating walking football into their regular sports programs.
Walking Football came to Blackpool in 2014 with the formation of Senior Seasiders Walking Football Club. As well as an Over-75's team, the club also manages Over-50's, Over-60's, Over-65's, and Over-70's teams and has over 100 active members. The popular club hosts two social sessions each week, welcoming to all players, at the new Blackpool’s Common Edge Sports Village.
International Recognition and Aneurin Bevan Shield
Walking football has gained international attention, with teams being established in numerous countries beyond the UK. The game’s welcoming atmosphere and health benefits appeal with older populations worldwide. To promote cross-border tournaments, events such as the Aneurin Bevan Shield have been launched.
The Aneurin Bevan Shield, an yearly competition, celebrates the essence of walk football while honouring Aneurin Bevan, a notable personality in welfare state history. This competition has cemented walking football's status on the global stage, bringing squads together from across the world to compete and exchange knowledge.
Rules and Adaptations for Over 75s
Walking football provides an engaging way for over-75s, and even over-80s, to remain physically engaged. This variant of football has specific rules and modifications to enhance safety and accessibility for seniors.
Modifications from Traditional Football
Walk football is adapted from the conventional game to cater for older players. Critical adjustments ensure it's suitable for the over-75s. Running is strictly forbidden. Players must keep one foot on the ground at all times, minimising the speed of play and the risk of falls.
Heading is not permitted in walk football, protecting players from potential concussions. Defending is minimal and limited to safe interactions to prevent unnecessary injuries. The ball often remains at a controlled height throughout the game, minimizing the chance of mishaps. walking football over 75s The pitch and goal sizes are downsized, making the game more easier to play.